Reigning Phoenix Music
Release: 5 July 2024
Genre: Power Metal
Links: https://ordenogan.de/
Line Up:
Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann | vocals
Niels Löffler | guitars
Patrick Sperling | guitars
Steven Wussow | bass
Dirk Meyer-Berhorn | drums
Tracklist:
1.Kings of the Underworld
2.The Order Of Fear
3.Moon Fire
4.Conquest
5.Blind Man
6.Prince of Sorrow
7.Dread Lord
8.My Worst Enemy
9.Anthem to the Darkside
10.The Journey Thus Far
11.The Long Darkness
The seventh album from the German band, spearheaded by the talented Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann, is as grand in scope as it is anthemic. Terms such as majestic, anthemic, powerful, captivating, and uplifting have frequently been used to describe Orden Ogan’s music over the years, and I am pleased to affirm that these descriptors apply abundantly to this release as well.
The album cover seamlessly integrates into the band’s discography, with subtle nods to previous releases that keen-eyed fans will appreciate. By the time we progress past the title track and Moon Fire, a sense of satisfaction prevails, knowing this album meets all expectations for an Orden Ogan release. Seeb’s vocals are more robust than ever, the guitar work is exceptionally precise, and the multi-layered vocal harmonies are impeccable. After the slightly more pop-oriented Final Days, it is refreshing to see the band return to their core strengths.
This album is intense and heavy, with the guitars delivering a crunchier sound, focusing more on a riff-driven approach rather than orchestral elements. This stylistic shift is intriguing, and while the album retains the quintessential Orden Ogan identity, it represents an evolved sound, and the band benefits greatly from it.
For those concerned that a ‘heavier’ and ‘less orchestral’ direction might result in the absence of anthems such as Gunman or the track that introduced me to the band, The Things We Believe In, rest assured—they are included and more.
What sets this album apart is a unique turn of events where a bout of writer’s block led the band to collaborate with a dedicated fan from Uruguay, who assisted in shaping the direction for The Order of Fear. The result is a collection of 10 tracks that continue the cinematic narrative of protagonist Alistar Vale.
All of the band’s albums are interconnected, from their debut through 2015’s Ravenhead to the current release, where Vale faces challenges, difficult choices, and more, orchestrated by the monks from the Order. The band’s website offers a storybook that provides context for the 10 songs on the album. I eagerly anticipate delving into it once more.
Score: 10/10
Reviewed by: Adrian Hextall
Editors Pick 
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